Act 2, Scene 2, Part 1 Summary

Outside the cottage, Agnes sits looking out at the water as Brand comes out. He speaks poetically about the peace in the face of the man who just died, wondering if all change comes so easily and peacefully. He says the man had no real idea of the depths of his sin and refers to how he had no idea of what had "branded" him. He also speaks poetically about the man's two little children. He says that their father's sin has made them sinners and wonders whether it's possible for anyone to escape the taint of sin. He comments on the way that everyone seems to be living under the shadow of the impending avalanche of guilt.

Some of the villagers appear, bringing with them scraps of food and clothing for the abandoned children. Their Leader comments on how impressed...